December is a unique month in that it has not just one official birthstone—but four! Join us throughout the month as we profile December birthstone jewelry.

Our second December gemstone is Tanzanite. If you’re new to this sparkly, blue gem, let us begin by saying, it is well worth making the acquaintance. Often called the ‘gemstone of the 20th century,’ this gemstone is no less captivating in the 21st.

Though naturally reddish-brown in color, when tanzanite is heated (gently, as the stone is delicate), it gives off a blue shade ranging the color spectrum from icy blue-violet to deeper periwinkle. The color is rich, captivating and unique from other blue stones for its purple hints and hues.

Tanzanite is a relative newcomer on the jewelry scene. Discovered in 1967 by Masai shepherds around the foothills of Mt. Kilimanjaro in the African country of Tanzania. When the stone was presented to Tiffany Jewelry Company they were immediately enamored with it. Their interest in the purplish-blue stone led to mass appeal. Though the stone’s original name is blue zoisite, Tiffany dubbed it Tanzanite, after the location of its discovery. And Tanzania is the only location in which this stone has been found, contributing to its exotic and exclusive nature.

In the same way that diamonds became the engagement ring default through slogans such as “A diamond is forever,” tanzanite has been linked to the slogan “Be born to tanzanite,” indicating that this is a stone that should be given to commemorate a birth. Whether celebrating a December birthday, the birth of a new baby, or another special winter occasion, Tanzanite is a stone that is sure to delight the wearer—its deep color, luxurious appearance, and exotic quality guarantee it!

Our Favorite Tanzanite Pieces To Celebrate December, Or A New Birth!

Tanzanite Stud Earrings Set In 14K White Gold. Available in 4mm, 5mm, or 6mm sized stones, these earrings give you tanzanite in its purest form, with nothing else to distract you from its beauty. These solitaire earrings make a perfect gift for a recipient of any age or fashion sense—the color is versatile and attractive on women with all shades of skin, eyes, and hair. The Tanzanite Stud Earrings can also be set in 14K yellow gold or platinum.

Birthstone Jewelry

For a love that’s true blue, it’s hard to beat sapphire engagement rings. The stunning rich blue sparkle of the sapphire is timelessly glamorous and always eye-catching, perfect for expressing a love that’s deep and that never fades. Sapphire rings have been long been loved and worn by royalty Read MoreYou Might Also Like: Red, White and Blue Gemstones for the 4th of July Something Blue: Blue Diamond Engagement Rings Diamond Bridal Sets: Three Ways These Pairs Symbolize True Love

This month is the perfect time to sport an emerald! Not only is this green gemstone the birthstone for the month of May, it’s also the inspiration for Pantone’s color of the year! The emerald’s saturated green sparkle is ideal for the season when the trees are full of leaves and the earth is full Read MoreYou Might Also Like: May Birthstone: Emerald Rings May Birthstone: Emerald The Emerald Option

Mother’s Day is here! Have you decided how you’re going to honor your mom yet? Mom jewelry of many kinds is a lovely way to show the woman who raised you—or any other woman who’s played an important role in your life—that you appreciate her, and there no better time to buy a piece of this jewelry Read MoreYou Might Also Like: Wedding Rings—and All Apples of Gold Jewelry—at 10 Percent Off! Investing in Mother’s Day